Erik and Nolan are great instructors. They are patient and don't pressure students they allow them to climb to their comfort level and that lets them climb higher on their terms great for kids and adults alike. We're excited to be back for homeschooling climbing days! read more

Took several private classes with Erik over the past year. He took me from newbie to confident multi-pitch trad leader. A thoughtful teacher and a great guide! I would wholeheartedly recommend taking lessons with Erik! He came up with an effective, thoughtful curriculum and adjusted on the fly as I tackled each item - highlighting things I excelled at and boosting my confidence, while also highlighting items I needed practice on and keeping me grounded in the real world for serious safety precautions. read more

I want to give California Climbing School a top notch review. We went with our women's retreat group and the instructors that helped us out were incredibly knowledgeable, patient and friendly. There were a few in the group who had never climbed and because of the approach given they tried it and loved it. I would highly recommend this company for anyone looking to either try climbing or improve their climbing skills. read more

California Climbing School - our Harmonic Flow climbing group - Rock Climbing Near Me - Joshua Tree, California

We took an 8-hour private class with owner-instructor Erik. He practiced all of the recommended CoViD-19 precautions and more. He took everyone's temperature before the start of class, including his own.  We have a little bit of rope experience, and Erik customized our class for us. He combined and taught us elements from more than one of his regular group classes. He provided all of the climbing gear. It wasn't necessary, but I chose to bring my own rappelling gloves, carabiner, and climbing shoes. I ended up using a nice comfortable pair of Erik's shoes, because he wisely explained that mine are better suited for another type of rock climbing. I mostly used my gloves while belaying my climbing partner and for the rappel at the end of our class. Erik made efficient use of all 8 hours, even explaining the interesting flora and fauna as we walked from one face to another. He is very knowledgeable and safe. We learned a lot from him about general rock climbing, specific climbing techniques, crack climbing, single and double rope techniques, top roping, lead climbing, anchors, modern vs. classic belay methods, the flora & fauna of Joshua Tree National Park, and much more.  Toward the end of our day, he led us on an adventure trek to the summit of Echo Rock, Joshua Tree National Park. We took lots of photos of the gorgeous views up there before rappelling or being lowered back down to ground level. If someone would've taken me to the specific rock faces that we climbed, a day or more before our class, and told me, "You will be climbing up these rock faces soon.",  I would've looked at him incredulously and replied, "No way. How? I don't see enough holds. It looks too slippery and dangerous."  But Erik taught us how to climb them, and increased my confidence in myself and in the gear. I will be taking additional classes with Erik in the future. I highly recommend his school to people of any skill level who want to learn about rock climbing and/or about Joshua Tree National Park and its gorgeous rock formations. P.S. Erik offers a discount to military veterans. read more

See all

Our 4-year-old LOVES her classes at California Climbing School. All of the instructors are so patient and so kind, they really have taught her to trust the ropes and herself. After only a few classes, I can see her confidence growing and love seeing her conquer her fears and build a new skill. Highly recommend Erik and his team at CCS to anyone. read more

See all

A very professionally ran company, covers the full spectrum of climbing, with a unique educational approach. For new climbers, sport, trad, multi pitch, anchor building, self rescue. Looking for an amazing climbing experience or looking to take your climbing to the next grade in sport or trade, you'll find it with California Climbing School read more

Great climbing school! My 11- year old had an incredible day with Erik. He challenged him and taught him. Very professional business. I would highly recommend and look forward to signing my son up for another class next time we're visiting Joshua Tree. read more

California Climbing School - Erik and my son after a climb - Rock Climbing Near Me - Joshua Tree, California

We took their 1/2 day private climbing class with Erik and it was an absolute blast. Me and my partner both climb at our local gym but I have never climbed outside before. Erik created a day that was perfectly tailored to our skill levels, while making time to teach us new tips and tricks. As a healthcare worker I will also say that they had very reasonable and thoughtful precautions in place. If we come back to Joshua tree, we would sign up for another class here in a heart beat. read more

Hired Erik for a half day private lesson to take me and my boyfriend climbing in Joshua tree. He came recommended by another friend and did not disappoint. He was super nice and helpful when I called and asked a whole bunch of questions. We settled on a half day (7am-11am) in September. I was pretty worried about it being super hot by the end of the session, but even though temperature wise it was probably high 80s or 90s, he found us some shady climbs and we were totally fine. Me and my boyfriend climb indoors, him more than me. Erik took all of this into account and found us some routes that I was able to complete, but also had a more challenging route for my boyfriend. In the end I got to complete about 4 climbs and my boyfriend did 5, although he probably could have been challenged a little more. Erik was super friendly and helpful, and also very knowledgeable about the outdoors and the park. I enjoyed hearing his take on ways to treat the park and the trails etc. We'll definitely be booking with Erik again - probably for a full day next time. read more

California Climbing School - Half day private climbing lesson at Joshua Tree! - Rock Climbing Near Me - Joshua Tree, California

See all

I went to Joshua Tree for my girlfriend's birthday and got private climbing lessons from Erik. I wasn't too sure what to expect with our first time climbing, but Erik was very accommodating and was the best guide I could possibly hope for. I've never been climbing in my life and I'm also a bit scared of heights, but Erik took that into consideration when guiding us through the climbs. My girlfriend has been to climbing gyms, so she was much better than I was. We got to do quite a bit of climbing during our half day lesson and Erik took us scrambling to the top to get some awesome photos. We had a wonderful experience and will definitely be back again to do some more challenging climbs with a Erik next time we're back in Joshua Tree! 10/10! read more

California Climbing School - Rock Climbing Near Me - Joshua Tree, California

I took my girls to the kid's climbing class and we had an amazing afternoon. Eric is very knowledgeable and I felt so comfortable with him teaching my kids the climbing basics. We travel around and try to find climbing adventures wherever we are; this was the best by far! The class was affordable and exactly what we needed. So thankful to have come across CCS! read more

Just got back from 3 days of climbing with Erik and T. It was an exceptional experience! We had a group of 12 and everybody had a blast! They not only got a handful of first time climber sending some slabby 5.8s and 9s, but they got those of us who had some previous experience challenging ourselves. Dang I'm sore!!! These guys got it going on! Excited to call them up again next time we are in JTree! Aaron read more

CCS is a wonderful organization with great vibes. Erik and Tee are terrific instructors and they know Joshua Tree National Park inside out. They are fabulous guides with a great sense of humor, and a beautiful sense of community and family. Highly recommended! read more

If you get the chance to hire Erik Kramer-Webb as a guide or take a class with California Climbing School, do it!! Erik's passion for climbing, mountaineering and the environment shines through when he's guiding and teaching. I have hired Erik as a guide a few times and I always feel completely safe on the rock and learn something new. Both as a teacher and a guide, I have found him to be patient, encouraging and is willing to explain the simplest concept as many times you need to get it down solid. As you spend the day with him you see and hear just how much he cares about keeping the land, vegetation and environment safe and pristine. His knowledge and passion for every aspect of climbing outdoors is exciting and inspiring. read more

California Climbing School - Rock Climbing Near Me - Joshua Tree, California

What a great introduction to climbing! Erik was a wonderful guide. His passion for his craft and the environment was very inspiring, contagious, and refreshing. I learned a great deal about climbing basics, was challenged, and would definitely recommend California Climbing School for anybody just looking for an introduction to serious climbing or a fun outdoor activity. Joshua Tree is a national treasure, and Erik is its biggest ambassador. His knowledge of the local terrain, knowing where best climbing spots are, and patience and encouragement for all levels of climbers is worth the price of admission. The opportunity to spend some great outdoor time with a few friends is a huge bonus. Highly recommended! read more

I had a fantastic experience with California Climbing School. Erik was incredibly helpful in figuring out which courses I wanted to sign up for based on my previous climbing experience. My guide was Ting and she was super knowledgeable and really fun to spend the day with. I learned so much from her and was able to get everything I wanted out of the day. I could not recommend the California Climbing School enough if you are looking to learn more about climbing outdoors or just want to have a fun experience trying out climbing read more

We contacted Erik for an introductory private rock climbing class in Joshua Tree as part of my bday celebration. Erik is extremely knowledgeable about climbing and JT. He is trustworthy and fun. He made rock climbing easy. One of the best bday gifts I've had. Thanks, Erik! read more

Erik is a master of trad and has deep knowledge of climbing in jtree. I would highly recommend him for someone looking to get out on the best jtree has to offer. We did a half day of trad climbing, with Erik setting anchors and leading and me following. Next time, full day! read more

Attended a weekend-long climbing and yoga clinic, and could not have been more pleased. Not only are Erik and Tee deeply knowledgeable about climbing technique and safety, they are both wonderful coaches and teachers. The satisfaction they take in helping people learn is palpable and they work hard to understand each climber's strengths, weaknesses, and personal style to give meaningful and insightful feedback and direction, and to help students find their joy in climbing. They have a respect and commitment to the land that they are equally eager to share. Not to mention a knack for fostering a supportive and collaborative group dynamic. In addition to guiding and teaching climbs, Erik and Tee graciously hosted us at their beautiful home, even breaking out instruments to serenade us all around the campfire with their incredible bluegrass music-- complete with climbing inspired lyrics. I cannot recommend CCS highly enough! I'll definitely be back for more ;) read more

Erik and his team were amazing. We were a group of 5 guys. Everything was super organized, safe and informative. I'd recommend California Climbing School to anyone looking for a great day in the outdoors climbing. read more

Hired Erik for a day of private guiding on Tahquitz on 4/23. About 10 years ago I took a climbing techniques class followed by an anchors class with him at Joshua Tree, which were both fantastic. After a couple of years of not climbing I wanted a refresher on some of my trad skills and particularly to also learn some tricks to improve my multi-pitch efficiency. When booking the day I told Erik what I wanted to accomplish and he clearly had put thought into the itinerary for the day. We climbed Fingertrip and focused on multi-pitch efficiency/tips/tricks along the way (all super helpful and new to me), and also did some drills/scenarios after we descended. Erik is extremely knowledgeable, practical and an excellent guide. It was a fun, beneficial day and well worth the money. In addition to being a great guide he's very upbeat, really fun to climb with and very knowledgeable about the environment/natural resources and shares that passion with his clients. I highly recommend California Climbing School and Erik in particular. read more

Another wonderful experience being guided by California Climbing School. Erik guided me on a full day in Joshua Tree focusing on doing some classic crack climbing while working on technique. He made sure we warmed up appropriately and then worked up in grades as the day progressed. He pushed me on some climbs that I would have not undertaken otherwise and surprised me in what was within my own capabilities. We did numerous climbs and it was the most routes I have ever been able to do in a single guided day (as I wanted to focus on technique and getting in as much as possible in one day). Erik also accommodated a last minute scheduling change due to weather and braved lower than usual temps with a contagious, positive attitude. While most other parties were kept from climbing due to the cold, Erik found some awesome protected spots that allowed us to climb all day. Erik's suggestive, easy-going coaching style is well balanced with his ever-present situational awareness and focus on safety at all times. I have at least one other trip booked with CCS in the next couple months and hope to climb with them again in future. read more

If only one could create a 30 hour day! What an amazing weekend of yoga/climbing/good eats/campfire/and live music. Imagine as much diverse climbing you are capable of, all styles of yoga in a warm desert atmosphere, hearty, healthy breakfast and dinner, and live jam sessions around a campfire at night. Thank you so much Erik, Theresa, Brianna and Ting. My favorite was the restorative yoga session at the end of an incredible weekend. Do not miss out on any retreat/workshop these dedicated professionals put on. Nice send! read more

I spent an amazing three days on a combination yoga climbing retreat arranged and hosted by California Climbing School. We were a fairly large group with 12 of us, however Erik and the team did an amazing job in keeping us all in climbing harnesses and appropriately challenged throughout the weekend. It was really a lifetime experience I'll never forget! read more

Is there more than 5 stars? This cast of climbers are FIRST CLASS! We brought a big group of kids and parents of varying ages (4-50) with varying physical fitness capabilities and these fine, patient, professional climbing instructors got each and everyone who want to up a mountain at whatever height they were comfortable without making anyone feel less than if they didn't go to the top! We can say enough GOOD about Eric, his wife and their AMAZING team! We will be back as frequent customers! read more

Did a day trad lead class with Erik at J Tree. Couldn't have been better. Erik will size up your skill level right away and start filling in the gaps with no wasted time and with expert instruction. This guy knows J Tree like the back of his hand and has all the technical knowledge you can absorb. read more

My two teenagers, 17 and 18 years old, are gym climbers, and wanted to try outdoor climbing. As a Christmas present I decided to take them to Joshua Tree for a guided climbing vacation. A Google search turns up many climbing guides for Joshua Tree, and it's hard to make a rational choice. I chose CCS over the other climbing guides because the schedule of classes fit our vacation schedule, honestly--but also because both of the owners obviously had impressive credentials. I signed the kids up for two days of classes in December 2017: "How to Rock Climb" and "Climbing Technique." Prior to the classes, Erik's communications and directions were prompt and precise (although there were some hiccups with the web reservation system--I imagine they'll get these worked out soon). When we met on the morning of the first day, I found Erik to have a great manner with both me and the kids, yet he established procedures and boundaries from the very beginning. This is exactly what I wanted to see in a guide. When I saw Erik in action, he very clearly knew what he was doing, and over the two days he gave the kids a great intro to outdoor climbing. I mostly left them alone and went off on my own to do a bike ride and a hike on the two days--in both cases based on suggestions from Erik that turned out to be spot-on. When we met up again near the end of the second day, Erik and the kids were doing their last climbs in an area behind Hemingway Buttress where there were several other climbing groups. Watching Erik interact with the other climbers and guides, I was able to see that he is truly an authority on climbing in the Joshua Tree area and was clearly respected by the other climbers and guides. Erik's knowledge of the natural history of Joshua Tree and the surrounding area is also very impressive--learning about some of the features of the landscape and the issues it faces (e.g. fire intensity and the role played by non-native grasses) made the trip even more enjoyable for us. I would highly recommend California Climbing School for guided climbs in Joshua Tree. read more

California Climbing School - Erik belaying my daughter as she gets near to the top of the climb - Rock Climbing Near Me - Joshua Tree, California

What an amazing experience. Erik met up with us at Joshua Tree to help guide us on our first ever outdoor climbing attempt. The care for our safety and learning development was outstanding. We could not have asked for a better experience. Erik's patience, diligence, and knowledge helped us be comfortable and confident in our climbing. Thank you to Erik and the California Climbing School for igniting a passion for outdoor climbing. read more

What a great first experience with rock climbing for our 9 year old son. Miss "T" is a natural with kids. We didn't know how our son would do with the heights aspect and were amazed when he scrambled right to the top with Miss "T" and the other 3 great kids in the class cheering him on. They made 4 climbs and had a great time even when not climbing. We'll definitely be back. read more

Our two daughters, 9 & 13 had previously been climbing a couple times with mixed results. One thought she might like it and the other one decidedly not. However, Erik took them out and wow- was it different! He was patient with them, showing the detailed motions and mindset needed to get up and down the rock without fear. He was able to get them comfortable lowering on the rope and climbing up the slab. When they finished, both were begging for more! Thanks Erik for a fun and educational time! read more